Chronic inflammation

Definition

Chronic inflammation is a prolonged inflammatory response that can last for months or years, often due to persistent infection, autoimmune response, or prolonged exposure to harmful agents. It involves the continuous presence of immune cells and can lead to tissue damage and disease.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chronic inflammation can result from unresolved acute inflammation or persistent stimuli such as pathogens, irritants, or autoimmune reactions.
2. Key players in chronic inflammation include macrophages, lymphocytes, and fibroblasts.
3. Unlike acute inflammation, chronic inflammation often leads to tissue destruction and fibrosis.
4. Cytokines like TNF-alpha and IL-6 are crucial mediators in the process of chronic inflammation.
5. Granulomas, which are aggregates of macrophages surrounded by lymphocytes, are a hallmark of certain types of chronic inflammation.

Review Questions

• What are the primary cells involved in chronic inflammation?
• How does chronic inflammation differ from acute inflammation in terms of duration and outcomes?
• Which cytokines play significant roles in mediating chronic inflammatory responses?

Related terms

Acute Inflammation: A rapid immune response to injury or infection characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain.

Cytokines: Signaling proteins released by cells that mediate and regulate immunity and inflammation.

Fibrosis: The thickening and scarring of connective tissue usually as a result of injury or long-term inflammation.